An ATM card’s CVV is a crucial component of credit or debit card transactions, and it is a multi-digit number located on the back or front of the card. The term CVV stands for Card Verification Value, and it is usually a 3 or 4 digit number. This code is used to establish the unique identity of the card owner and minimize fraudulent activities during transactions.
ATM cards may use different acronyms for CVV, such as CVV2, CVC, CSC, or CID, depending on the card issuer. For example, VISA uses CVV2, while Mastercard uses CVV or CSC, and Discover and American Express cards use CID. Amex cards have a 4-digit CID on the front side of the card, while other cards usually have the usual 3-digit CVV on the backside, near the signature space.
The CVV in an ATM card consists of two parts: the first code or magnetic stripe and the digit code. The magnetic stripe contains binary data with a lot of crucial, unique data about the user’s identity. Data Encryption Standard also keeps the user’s data encrypted and identity safe, preventing fraud and theft. The card reader recovers this binary data when you swipe the card in an ATM to ensure the owner’s unique identity.
The second part of the CVV is the digit code, a unique code on the magnetic stripe converted into a decimal code to create a three or four-digit code printed on the card. The banks or card providers generate CVV using the user’s primary account number, 4-digit expiration date, and a three-digit service code. However, the exact algorithm is unknown for security reasons. ATMs or card swiping machines cannot store or transfer the CVV or related data information during swiping or online payments, preventing fraudulent activities.
No two cards can have the same CVV, ensuring the uniqueness of the code and the user. Some merchants check the CVV in an ATM card even during in-person transactions to confirm that you own the card or are the right user.
The CVV in an ATM card acts as a security measure against theft, fraud, or unauthorized transactions during online payments. You must share the CVV during online payments to confirm that the card user possesses the card. Once you enter the CVV, you receive an OTP (One Time Password) on your registered mobile number to complete the transaction, further enhancing security. However, if you lose your card, someone may misuse it by swiping at any payment gateway.
It is crucial to understand the difference between CVV in an ATM card and an ATM PIN (Personal Identification Number). You need not enter the CVV at ATMs for cash withdrawals, balance checks, PIN changes, etc. But, you need CVV for online payments or swiping cards. On the other hand, ATM transactions require an ATM PIN, which is usually a four-digit number that acts like a password to do a transaction from your account.